Returning to the point of the original post, I was in a similar position to Skidkicker a few years ago. At the time I didn't know of Pprune and only had the guidance of other pilots I met. I don't think that the employment issue has changed dramatically over the last few years (I agree it has had it ups and downs, but it always has) but if I had realised the truth of it, I would have had the same concerns as Skidkicker. But there are self improvers out there who are flying (in the UK) as Police, corporate, offshore, SAR, utility and HEMS pilots. It can and does happen, but as you will have already gathered, your attitude is paramount, oh and never forget to keep learning.